Frank James Palermo

Frank J. Palermo, 92, of Colorado Springs, entered eternal life on May 31, 2026. We can only imagine his overwhelming joy as he fell into the arms of his most glorious God, finally home, finally in everlasting peace. 

Born in Patchogue, New York, to Alfonsine Serrabella and Anthony Palermo, Frank possessed a lifelong curiosity of the mechanics of the world. He pursued his passion for engineering, earning a degree from Parks College of Engineering, and went on to have a distinguished career with Grumman Aerospace Corporation (and later at Lockheed Martin) as an aeronautical engineer. During that time, Frank was a Flight Test Engineer for the F-14 Tomcat, and the Test Conductor for the Apollo Lunar Module Ascent Engine, of which he was most proud. He was honored to say, “I got to help put a man on the moon and bring him home!” 

Frank was proud to serve in the military, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) and dedicating six years of service to his country in the U.S. Navy, followed by several years in the reserves. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Frank was a man of deep, steadfast faith; his Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his existence. He was an active member of Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church, where he lived out the Gospel through his quiet service and unwavering trust in God. He provided Christ-centered spiritual support to others via Stephen Ministry, and led the Wednesday Rosary Group for several years. 

He was renowned for his “gift of storytelling,” loving to share his wisdom and perspective with the world. Whether he was recounting the triumphant days of the Apollo Lunar Module, enrapturing his grandchildren with “Little Frankie” stories that provided a glimmer into his mischievous childhood, or sharing about his unwavering faith in God and his pilgrimages to apparition sites of the Blessed Virgin, his storytelling brought joy, laughter, and wisdom to every room he entered.

Frank is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Sharon. He is survived by his sister, Yvonne Quatrale and nephews and nieces, his daughters, Teri Wasserbach of Ohio and Lori Backers of California; and grandchildren Kevin Backers, Allie Cameron, Rex Wasserbach, Riley Wasserbach, Kelly Dutton, Remy Wasserbach, and two great-granddaughters.

Rosary: Tuesday, June 16th at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church, 11020 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80908. Funeral Mass: Tuesday, June 16th, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church. The family will be extending an invitation to the memorial luncheon at the conclusion of the services